TULANE TALK

I write you this morning with the sad news that Dr. Herbert Eugene Longenecker, who served as the 11th president of Tulane University from 1960 to 1975, has passed away.

I met Dr. Longenecker six years ago when he was 92. He was charming, thoughtful and candid about the challenges he faced as president while, at the same time, humble about his many achievements.

Dr. Longenecker served as president during one of the most tumultuous times in the history of our country. The 1960s and early '70s were defined by the civil rights movement, the Vietnam War and the coming of age of the Baby Boom Generation. College campuses were hotbeds of controversy and protest.

Tulane saw its fair share of issues and challenges during his presidency, but Dr. Longenecker deftly led Tulane through them all and left a strong institution as his legacy.

The entire Longenecker family is held in high esteem within the Tulane and New Orleans communities and many speak of him with great respect and affection. We all mourn Dr. Longenecker's death and offer our deepest sympathy to his family. We are all grateful for the leadership he provided Tulane.